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Antony Kendall, director of operations for The Wallich said: “We often see an increase in rough sleepers during the summer months as emergency “cold weather” accommodation comes to an end.

“However, there is no doubt that there has been a worrying increase in the numbers we are seeing right across Wales. There are a multitude of reasons for this increase, including changes to welfare benefits, and a lack of suitable move-on accommodation from homelessness services.”

(Image: Peter Bolter)

Out of those that were recorded as sleeping rough, 77 per cent were men and 46 per cent were aged between 36 and 50.

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A Swansea Council spokesman said: “Levels of homelessness and rough sleeping in Swansea, like all cities, tend to fluctuate from month to month. Reasons for homelessness and rough sleeping can be very complex and varied, so the council works closely in partnership with a number of voluntary agencies, charities and other organisations to give as much help and support as we can.

“In Swansea, we take a very proactive approach to homelessness prevention, with statistics showing the council was the best performing in Wales in 2015/2016 at preventing homelessness.

“Our Housing Options service is available to deal with any household facing housing difficulties that may arise because of reasons including relationship breakdown, financial difficulties and rough sleeping. Located at 17 High Street, trained staff can also be contacted on 01792 533100. In an emergency, a call-out homelessness officer can be contacted out of hours on 01792 636000.

“Other useful numbers include Shelter Cymru’s 24-hour housing and benefits advice line, which is available on 0845 0755005.

“If anyone sees rough sleepers in Swansea, they’re encouraged to visit www.streetlink.org.uk or call 0300 5000914. Outreach workers will then visit the location to provide advice and support, if needed.”

However, Swansea is by far not the area which has seen the largest increase in homelessness across South Wales.

Bridgend has seen a rise of 67 per cent from last year and Newport has seen rough sleeping increase by a shocking 93 per cent from last year. Cardiff saw an increase of seven per cent.